where jess ate

Introducing the newest addition to the rapidly expanding Playa Cabana family: La Libre. Unlike other locations, La Libre is their only fully outdoor venue. After the long and seemingly never-ending winter, I couldn’t be more excited about this patio-only destination.

La Libre is located right behind Playa Cabana Hacienda (at Avenue and Dupont). With sandwashed tables and bright vibrant colours, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into the Mayan Riviera. Oh, and don’t let the rain stop you. They’re equipped with a retractable awning which really came in handy the day we dropped by. Despite the pouring rain, we still had an amazing time and I’m happy to report that we left nice and dry.

La Libre, which translates into “the Free” in Spanish, features a Yucatán-inspired menu consisting of traditional Mexican bocaditos, tacos and postres. The majority of the menu items here are cooked on a charcoal grill at the back of the open space. You’ll definitely smell what’s cooking in the kitchen.

They wanted to keep the flavours light to pair with the warm weather and they’ve achieved just that. And like all Playa Cabana’s, La Libre has some damn good cocktails created by renowned Toronto mixologist Robin Goodfellow.

Last week I attended a media preview at La Libre and had the chance to sample some of their offerings. Here’s a look:

El Librador – El Jimador Reposado, grapefruit, soda, mezcal

El Conquistador – Jose Cuervo Tradicionale, Cointreau, citrus horchata & lime

Guacamole & Condiments

More Condiments: salsa verde, habanero & jerk

Chips

Ceviche Yucateca

Tacos Al Pastor

Whole Pig Smoked Cochinita Pibil

Whole Pig Smoked Cochinita Pibil Tacos

Tacos de Cecina

With the opening of La Libre, Executive Chef and owner Dave Sidhu has done it again. With a fantastic outdoor space, delicious cocktails and tasty bites, there’s no doubt that this will be one of this summer’s hottest destinations!

*This was a complimentary meal. The opinions in the post, as always, are my own.*